'We don't have inspired decision makers'

The concept of setting up Special Agriculture Zones is interesting. However, a few issues have to be clarified.

The concept of setting up Special Agriculture Zones is interesting. However, a few issues have to be clarified.

Whose land will it be—government’s or farmer’s? If it is government land, how is farmer going to benefit? Big investors will jump into the fray to reap a rich harvest.

If private land is acquired, the owner i.e. farmer will become a labourer on his own land. Who will build infrastructure facilities and provide marketing support and ensure remunerative price?

Former Union minister Y K Alagh has lamented that although the government accepted his committee’s recommendations, it hasn’t requisite policy changes. The eternal tragedy is that while there is no dearth of inspired ideas, we do not have inspired decision makers.